By Taylor Austin, P.R. Manager, State Fair of Texas | Contributor
For the fifth year, the State Fair of Texas is offering SENSORY-FRIENDLY MORNINGS at the Fair every Wednesday of the 24-day event – October 4, 11, and 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Since providing a family-friendly environment is at the core of the State Fair’s mission, the Fair is excited to bring back Sensory-Friendly Mornings for a fifth year. The Fair collaborated with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and other local organizations to come up with ways to make Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Fair beneficial and fun for all who choose to attend. This opportunity is just another way for people to experience the Fair in a more accessible way.
On Sensory-Friendly Mornings, there are adjustments made across the fairgrounds to accommodate those with sensory sensitivities.
The Fair created a special guided itinerary with a list of activities and exhibits that are easy on the eyes and ears – you can find the itinerary at BigTex.com/Sensory to start planning your visit today. In addition, there are a few locations around the fairgrounds designated as “Quiet Zones,” that are listed in the itinerary, where families can go throughout their visit should they need to depressurize. Fairgoers will be able to enjoy all the fun of the Midway without the usual lights and sounds from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Please note that the usual lights and sounds of the Midway will return at 1 p.m.
Additionally, Joni and Friends Texas will be partnering with the State Fair of Texas during the first Sensory-Friendly Morning of the Fair on Wednesday, October 4. Joni and Friends is a nonprofit organization that supports folks with disabilities around the world. Joni and Friends Texas will be providing registered families with a volunteer buddy to provide additional support during your Fair visit. For those interested in volunteering or attending the first Sensory-Friendly Wednesday at the Fair, please visit joniandfriends.org/dallas to register.
Historically Wednesdays provide a better experience for those who have sensory sensitivities, due to trends in attendance. Wednesdays are also the best discount days. Each person who brings five canned food items to donate to North Texas Food Bank will receive $5 admission to the Fair.
The Fair welcomes individuals with autism, their families, and anyone else who may benefit from a sensory-friendly experience to come out and enjoy the great State Fair of Texas on Sensory-Friendly Mornings. For more information, visit BigTex.com/Sensory or contact PR manager, Taylor Austin, at taustin@bigtex.com.
The 2023 State Fair of Texas themed, “Explore the Midway,” will open on Friday, September 29, and will run through Sunday, October 22, 2023. Head to BigTex.com/Tickets to purchase your season passes and premium tickets today.